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Playing by Heart #1
Playing by Heart: A Story of Love
Who can work in a house that's being remodeled? Not Maddie Houser, a novelist who gladly accepts the help of her eighty-year-old friend, Ginny, to arrange a stay in a charming bed and breakfast. As time passes, Maddie never sees Ginny's friend, the inn owner--but a friendship blossoms as the two leave messages for each other. Before long, Maddie feels a deepening admiration for her unseen host. . .and chagrin when she assumes she's falling for a man she's never seen. Which will she listen to. . .her head or her heart?
128 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2013
41 people are currently reading
881 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Raney
77 books695 followersDEBORAH RANEY's first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title and launched Deb’s writing career. Twenty-five years, forty-plus books, and numerous awards later, she's still creating stories that touch hearts and lives. Her novels have won RWA's RITA Award, the ACFW Carol Award, the National Readers Choice Award, and the HOLT Medallion. She is also a three-time Christy Award finalist. Deb is a recent Missouri transplant, having moved with her husband, Ken Raney, from their native Kansas to be closer to kids and grandkids. They love road trips, Friday garage sale dates, and breakfast on the screened porch overlooking their wooded backyard. Visit Deb on the Web at www.deborahraney.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews
January 8, 2014
5 Words: fluffy, romance, letters, mistakes, laughing.
It is now very clear to me that Christian Romance is not my thing. But I got over-excited at the prospect of fluffy romance for rainy days and requested December-May without first reading even one of these novellas.
I have to admit that this was fluffy enough to keep me happy - it's a feel good book with a large amount of humour. I enjoyed the misunderstandings between the characters, they were quite hilarious.
I didn't like how quickly they "fell in love". I really dislike insta-love in most forms, it very rarely works and mostly seems like a get-out-of-jail card when an author can't develop the romance any other way. But I forgive it in this as it is just a novella. And I wouldn't have read a full length novel. I liked the sweet way they started to fall for each other, even with the characters thinking it was inappropriate.
This works as a novella. It's just the right length to pass a stormy afternoon and to cheer you up when the weather is miserable.
I'm going to hedge my bets that this was an uncorrected proof I read and so keep my comments about formatting and grammatical errors to myself. As such, they haven't really informed this review, only made for a little difficultly reading.
It is now very clear to me that Christian Romance is not my thing. But I got over-excited at the prospect of fluffy romance for rainy days and requested December-May without first reading even one of these novellas.
I have to admit that this was fluffy enough to keep me happy - it's a feel good book with a large amount of humour. I enjoyed the misunderstandings between the characters, they were quite hilarious.
I didn't like how quickly they "fell in love". I really dislike insta-love in most forms, it very rarely works and mostly seems like a get-out-of-jail card when an author can't develop the romance any other way. But I forgive it in this as it is just a novella. And I wouldn't have read a full length novel. I liked the sweet way they started to fall for each other, even with the characters thinking it was inappropriate.
This works as a novella. It's just the right length to pass a stormy afternoon and to cheer you up when the weather is miserable.
I'm going to hedge my bets that this was an uncorrected proof I read and so keep my comments about formatting and grammatical errors to myself. As such, they haven't really informed this review, only made for a little difficultly reading.
January 25, 2014
This is the second novella in this Inspirational Christian fiction series I have read. Each book is a stand alone written by a different author.
Maddie & Arthur's relationship unfolded in a unique way. Communicating solely through short notes, they learn to love each other while brighten each other's day. It's a safe relationship for both of them since their ages are so far apart as both think the other is elderly.
While it is predictable, A January Bride is a sweet story that I enjoyed reading and would recommend to anyone who enjoys clean Christian romance.
Maddie & Arthur's relationship unfolded in a unique way. Communicating solely through short notes, they learn to love each other while brighten each other's day. It's a safe relationship for both of them since their ages are so far apart as both think the other is elderly.
While it is predictable, A January Bride is a sweet story that I enjoyed reading and would recommend to anyone who enjoys clean Christian romance.
May 10, 2018
A January Bride is the second book from the A Year of Weddings series. This book was about Maddie and Art. Their relationship was pretty unique because they were sort of pen pals before they ever met each other. Of course.. they both had their own image and assumptions for the person would look and act like. Some of the assumptions were hilarious - which is why I really enjoyed this book.
Remember how I said they were sort of pen pals? Yeah, okay.. more like note pals? It was honestly cute.. I remember writing notes with my friends every now and then in High School.. but other than that we would just text each other.
Overall, Maddie and Art were pretty cute. I laughed so hard because they thought the other person was so freaking old. A lot older than they were. Again, some of the assumptions were funny. However, that's all I really got from this short book. I guess I just expected a little bit more in this book - like the first book.
Remember how I said they were sort of pen pals? Yeah, okay.. more like note pals? It was honestly cute.. I remember writing notes with my friends every now and then in High School.. but other than that we would just text each other.
Overall, Maddie and Art were pretty cute. I laughed so hard because they thought the other person was so freaking old. A lot older than they were. Again, some of the assumptions were funny. However, that's all I really got from this short book. I guess I just expected a little bit more in this book - like the first book.
April 20, 2018
A January Bride was a fun and fast read. I loved how Maddie and Art got to know one another through notes they left for one another, before meeting each other in person. This led to both of them assuming things about the other person, including both of them thinking the other was elderly - lol!
Even though the story is on the short side, it didn't feel hurried or stilted and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
If you enjoy clean contemporary romance and are looking for a shorter book, you should give this book a try.
Even though the story is on the short side, it didn't feel hurried or stilted and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
If you enjoy clean contemporary romance and are looking for a shorter book, you should give this book a try.
July 29, 2024
I loved this idea and was excited to pick it up and you know what I wasn't disappointed. I thought the flow of the book was great. I loved how the author put all this together. I was so excited when they met. Such and cute book and great chemistry. I was sad when it ended but I am glad they didn't drag it out any longer. This was a cute, clean, short love story. This was a Christian book but anyone could enjoy it.
Listened on audio and the reader was great
Listened on audio and the reader was great
February 25, 2022
A short sweet romance!
February 26, 2014
Age Appropriate For: 13 and up for mild romance
Best for Ages: 15 and up
I was so honored when BookLook selected me to be one of the review bloggers allowed to review two of the Year of Weddings novellas. I so enjoyed December Bride and I couldn’t wait to see if the series would continue to be as good.
This story was such a delight for me as a writer. After all, Maddie is a writer way behind in her word count and disasters keep happening at her house while repairs are made. Enter a kind next-door neighbor who has the perfect place escape to a pretty mansion. Okay, I admit it. I am so jealous that she got to write in such a perfect setting.
I laughed so much while reading this book. The misunderstandings and humors mistakes by the different characters was so much fun without being ridiculous. I really think this book would make an excellent movie.
The only down side? I felt the that the author of the novella tried to add to much tension toward the end of the book, without the word count to fully explore and work out the issues. That however, was not hard to overlook with the other enjoyable aspects of the book.
The romance was sweet and not overdone. There were a couple of kisses, but nothing over the top. I also liked that the romance was based on a friendship first. Granted, it was far quicker than I would like, but it was nice to see none the less.
I highly recommend this book to romance lovers, writers, and those looking for a short, light read.
I received this book from Zondervan via BookLook in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Best for Ages: 15 and up
I was so honored when BookLook selected me to be one of the review bloggers allowed to review two of the Year of Weddings novellas. I so enjoyed December Bride and I couldn’t wait to see if the series would continue to be as good.
This story was such a delight for me as a writer. After all, Maddie is a writer way behind in her word count and disasters keep happening at her house while repairs are made. Enter a kind next-door neighbor who has the perfect place escape to a pretty mansion. Okay, I admit it. I am so jealous that she got to write in such a perfect setting.
I laughed so much while reading this book. The misunderstandings and humors mistakes by the different characters was so much fun without being ridiculous. I really think this book would make an excellent movie.
The only down side? I felt the that the author of the novella tried to add to much tension toward the end of the book, without the word count to fully explore and work out the issues. That however, was not hard to overlook with the other enjoyable aspects of the book.
The romance was sweet and not overdone. There were a couple of kisses, but nothing over the top. I also liked that the romance was based on a friendship first. Granted, it was far quicker than I would like, but it was nice to see none the less.
I highly recommend this book to romance lovers, writers, and those looking for a short, light read.
I received this book from Zondervan via BookLook in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
December 26, 2013
This was a really creative love story! For much of the book, Madeleine Houser and Arthur Tyler had not even met in person! It is quite a cute concept and the author did a very good job with this sweet novella.
Maddie is an author in need of a quiet place to work. Arthur is a widowed professor who has a bed and breakfast that he used to run with his deceased wife. When a mutual friend tells him of Maddie’s dilemma, he agrees to let Maddie do her writing there at the inn during the day while he is gone. What ensues is a fun mix up involving little notes left between Art and Maddie. Each thinks the other is much older and bares more of themselves in the notes than they would have if they knew to whom they were really writing.
The author did a nice job of creating likeable characters. Arthur had quite a bit of baggage to let go of, creating some good, heartfelt conflict. This is a charming love story that I would recommend to those who love reading romance. This novella is another good example of writing that can tell a full story and not seemed rushed, even if it is not a full length novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this novella from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
You can view this and other reviews on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
Maddie is an author in need of a quiet place to work. Arthur is a widowed professor who has a bed and breakfast that he used to run with his deceased wife. When a mutual friend tells him of Maddie’s dilemma, he agrees to let Maddie do her writing there at the inn during the day while he is gone. What ensues is a fun mix up involving little notes left between Art and Maddie. Each thinks the other is much older and bares more of themselves in the notes than they would have if they knew to whom they were really writing.
The author did a nice job of creating likeable characters. Arthur had quite a bit of baggage to let go of, creating some good, heartfelt conflict. This is a charming love story that I would recommend to those who love reading romance. This novella is another good example of writing that can tell a full story and not seemed rushed, even if it is not a full length novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this novella from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.
You can view this and other reviews on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
January 5, 2014
A January Bride features two characters who fall in love before they ever really meet. I enjoyed this one. I liked the idea of the characters getting to now each other through notes and letters. The most amusing part was that each of them thought the other one was old.
Arthur has been mourning his wife's death for a few years. Madeleine has been unlucky in love. They were perfect for each other. Maddie was just what Art needed to help he move on with his life and reopen his heart. My only wish was that story would have been a little longer. I felt like the proposal came a little too quickly. I would have liked to see them spend more actual time together. Despite that,it's a cutre addition to the series and worth reading!
Arthur has been mourning his wife's death for a few years. Madeleine has been unlucky in love. They were perfect for each other. Maddie was just what Art needed to help he move on with his life and reopen his heart. My only wish was that story would have been a little longer. I felt like the proposal came a little too quickly. I would have liked to see them spend more actual time together. Despite that,it's a cutre addition to the series and worth reading!
March 29, 2014
Maddie is an author in need of a quiet place to write. Her friend, Ginny, suggests that she use Art's Bed and Breakfast to do so.
The way their relationship unfolded was predictable, yet slow and sweet--perfect. I thoroughly enjoyed it! I could see how the misunderstanding came to be--who takes the time to actually write letters nowadays? I loved the surprise each face when they realize who each other was.
Content: Very mild Christian elements; no language or violence; sweet, clean romance (mild kissing).
**I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
The way their relationship unfolded was predictable, yet slow and sweet--perfect. I thoroughly enjoyed it! I could see how the misunderstanding came to be--who takes the time to actually write letters nowadays? I loved the surprise each face when they realize who each other was.
Content: Very mild Christian elements; no language or violence; sweet, clean romance (mild kissing).
**I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
August 18, 2021
Besides March Bride which is a continuation of one of my favorite series, this month was my favorite in the whole set. I loved the characters of Maddie and Arthur and the premise of the book was so much fun! This was a great story and very well written!
January 18, 2021
This was a sweet little book! It does have that Hallmark essence to it, but I enjoyed it much more than the first book.
It actually made me smile and chuckle to myself a lot as well!
I did like how it had a bit more of a spiritual aspect of it to which, for me, tied the book together.
“But I have lived long enough to know that God can take a noxious weed patch and turn it into a sweet-smelling rose garden.”
“Tragic things happened. Yet in the midst of them, if one were watchful, he could see God’s beauty manifested just as it was in the gold and russet of the dying leaves.”
It actually made me smile and chuckle to myself a lot as well!
I did like how it had a bit more of a spiritual aspect of it to which, for me, tied the book together.
“But I have lived long enough to know that God can take a noxious weed patch and turn it into a sweet-smelling rose garden.”
“Tragic things happened. Yet in the midst of them, if one were watchful, he could see God’s beauty manifested just as it was in the gold and russet of the dying leaves.”
January 5, 2022
Solid 3.5 short story romance.
The buildup of the two main characters meeting was so much fun! What I will say, is that while this is a wholesome romance, it is more on the religious side (with bible verses being quoted). Just be aware in case that's not really your thing.
I'm glad I've picked these up, they're a nice in between book from what I normally read.
The buildup of the two main characters meeting was so much fun! What I will say, is that while this is a wholesome romance, it is more on the religious side (with bible verses being quoted). Just be aware in case that's not really your thing.
I'm glad I've picked these up, they're a nice in between book from what I normally read.
June 7, 2018
Poorly pieces together. Way too fast. Plot holes. Lots of plot holes.
December 2, 2021
I wish this was a full novel! Even if the ending was fast...the journey was just so enjoyable.
June 1, 2025
A cute wholesome story can be a good palate cleanser. 😭
February 15, 2024
It was a lovely, sweet read.
January 31, 2023
A lovely cute and fun romance novella :)
I give 4 stars for an enjoyable engaging audio performance by Christy Ragland
I am enjoying A year of wedding series
I looking forward to February’s story :)
I give 4 stars for an enjoyable engaging audio performance by Christy Ragland
I am enjoying A year of wedding series
I looking forward to February’s story :)
January 10, 2014
This is the second book in the series: A Year of Weddings
Madeleine Houser was a writer with a looming deadline. To add to her stress, she has recently moved from her comfy New York condo to her sister's house in Kansas to be near her mom, who is in a nursing home with Alzheimer's disease. Her sister and husband needed to move with his job, and their home was being renovated for resale. What with all the repairmen coming and going, the noisy repairs were driving Maddie insane. She needed peace and quiet to write. When she talked with her sweet 84-year-old neighbor, Ginny Ross, her neighbor had an idea.
Ginny's friend, Arthur Tyler, owned a bed and breakfast inn out in the country that was not being used at the moment. Mr. Tyler lived in the basement apartment, driving to the nearby city university where he taught English. Ginny got permission from him for Maddie to set up her computer upstairs where she could write in peace. She would arrive in the mornings after he left for work, and leave in the afternoons before he returned home. Neither would disturb the other. Maddie just may meet her deadline after all.
In gratitude to Mr. Tyler for the use of his home, Maddie took regular cleaning breaks to polish some furniture or dust here and there. She also wrote daily notes to let him know how her novel was progressing. Arthur began to look forward to these missives and often penned a reply.
Maddie and Arthur could have continued this way indefinitely except that Art came down with a bad cold one day. Ginny decided to send the reluctant Maddie to the Inn with some of her homemade chicken noodle soup. A couple of days later, Art and Maddie met for the first time. It was a moment where the dynamics of their relationship shifted dramatically.
The author, Deborah Raney, had skillfully built up expectations of both parties, based on impressions and misunderstandings ably abetted by the romantically inclined Ginny. However, Ms. Raney keeps the reader knowledgeable about those impressions which makes so many moments such fun to read. Anticipation of the final "meet and greet" keeps this story moving along at a brisk clip.
For me, this is a novella I would enjoy reading several times. Art must suddenly deal with matters of the heart only three years after his wife died of cancer. Maddie must decide whether this is a relationship she wants to allow to grow into something more than friendship or keep at a distance where she is safe from heartbreak. It only took me a day to read the book. It's perfect for a quick weekend getaway read or mini-break. It's light-hearted, often humorous, somewhat predictable, but completely charming. I recommend this book if you enjoy these elements.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from NetGalley on behalf of Zondervan Fiction. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Madeleine Houser was a writer with a looming deadline. To add to her stress, she has recently moved from her comfy New York condo to her sister's house in Kansas to be near her mom, who is in a nursing home with Alzheimer's disease. Her sister and husband needed to move with his job, and their home was being renovated for resale. What with all the repairmen coming and going, the noisy repairs were driving Maddie insane. She needed peace and quiet to write. When she talked with her sweet 84-year-old neighbor, Ginny Ross, her neighbor had an idea.
Ginny's friend, Arthur Tyler, owned a bed and breakfast inn out in the country that was not being used at the moment. Mr. Tyler lived in the basement apartment, driving to the nearby city university where he taught English. Ginny got permission from him for Maddie to set up her computer upstairs where she could write in peace. She would arrive in the mornings after he left for work, and leave in the afternoons before he returned home. Neither would disturb the other. Maddie just may meet her deadline after all.
In gratitude to Mr. Tyler for the use of his home, Maddie took regular cleaning breaks to polish some furniture or dust here and there. She also wrote daily notes to let him know how her novel was progressing. Arthur began to look forward to these missives and often penned a reply.
Maddie and Arthur could have continued this way indefinitely except that Art came down with a bad cold one day. Ginny decided to send the reluctant Maddie to the Inn with some of her homemade chicken noodle soup. A couple of days later, Art and Maddie met for the first time. It was a moment where the dynamics of their relationship shifted dramatically.
The author, Deborah Raney, had skillfully built up expectations of both parties, based on impressions and misunderstandings ably abetted by the romantically inclined Ginny. However, Ms. Raney keeps the reader knowledgeable about those impressions which makes so many moments such fun to read. Anticipation of the final "meet and greet" keeps this story moving along at a brisk clip.
For me, this is a novella I would enjoy reading several times. Art must suddenly deal with matters of the heart only three years after his wife died of cancer. Maddie must decide whether this is a relationship she wants to allow to grow into something more than friendship or keep at a distance where she is safe from heartbreak. It only took me a day to read the book. It's perfect for a quick weekend getaway read or mini-break. It's light-hearted, often humorous, somewhat predictable, but completely charming. I recommend this book if you enjoy these elements.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from NetGalley on behalf of Zondervan Fiction. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 1, 2014
Title: A JANUARY BRIDE
Author: Deb Raney
Publisher: Zondervan
December 2013
ASIN: B00DL10HDA
Genre: Contemporary romance
A year's worth of novellas from twelve inspirational romance authors. Happily ever after guaranteed.
What will happen when novelist Madeleine Houser's 'pen pal' friendship with a lonely widower takes an unexpected turn?
Who can work in a house that's overrun by contractors and carpenters? Not Madeleine Houser, a successful novelist who gladly accepts the help of her octogenarian friend, Ginny, to arrange for a temporary office in the charming bed and breakfast owned by Ginny's friend, Arthur. Maddie's never met the innkeeper---but a friendship grows between them as Maddie and Arthur leave messages for each other each day. To Maddie's alternate delight and chagrin, she seems to be falling for the inn's owner---a man who's likely many years her senior---and who she's never even met.
Arthur Tyler is a college professor who lost his young wife to cancer. Together they ran the bed and breakfast where Art lives, but without his wife, the house is missing warmth and cheer. He jumps at the chance to have author Madeleine Houser use the space that was once filled with guests. He, too, begins to enjoy the daily exchanges with Maddie, but a series of misunderstandings lead him to believe she's far from being a prospective date---even if he were ready to date again, which he's not.
When Maddie and Art finally meet and discover one another's identity, sparks fly. Even so, they each have obstacles to overcome in order for this winter romance to blossom.
A JANUARY BRIDE was previously published as a Barbour Books novella, Playing by Heart. I remembered reading all those many years ago, but it was just as enjoyable the second time around.
As a published author on a deadline I totally relate to Maddie’s dilemma. I love that her neighbor found her a place to write, and that she found a romance in the deal. I appreciate the learning to trust God for all her needs that Maddie had to come to understand, and how Art had to learn to let go of his grief.
A short read that is easily devoured in a matter of hours, A JANUARY BRIDE has a message that will ultimately stay with the reader for a long time. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $3.63. 99 pages.
Author: Deb Raney
Publisher: Zondervan
December 2013
ASIN: B00DL10HDA
Genre: Contemporary romance
A year's worth of novellas from twelve inspirational romance authors. Happily ever after guaranteed.
What will happen when novelist Madeleine Houser's 'pen pal' friendship with a lonely widower takes an unexpected turn?
Who can work in a house that's overrun by contractors and carpenters? Not Madeleine Houser, a successful novelist who gladly accepts the help of her octogenarian friend, Ginny, to arrange for a temporary office in the charming bed and breakfast owned by Ginny's friend, Arthur. Maddie's never met the innkeeper---but a friendship grows between them as Maddie and Arthur leave messages for each other each day. To Maddie's alternate delight and chagrin, she seems to be falling for the inn's owner---a man who's likely many years her senior---and who she's never even met.
Arthur Tyler is a college professor who lost his young wife to cancer. Together they ran the bed and breakfast where Art lives, but without his wife, the house is missing warmth and cheer. He jumps at the chance to have author Madeleine Houser use the space that was once filled with guests. He, too, begins to enjoy the daily exchanges with Maddie, but a series of misunderstandings lead him to believe she's far from being a prospective date---even if he were ready to date again, which he's not.
When Maddie and Art finally meet and discover one another's identity, sparks fly. Even so, they each have obstacles to overcome in order for this winter romance to blossom.
A JANUARY BRIDE was previously published as a Barbour Books novella, Playing by Heart. I remembered reading all those many years ago, but it was just as enjoyable the second time around.
As a published author on a deadline I totally relate to Maddie’s dilemma. I love that her neighbor found her a place to write, and that she found a romance in the deal. I appreciate the learning to trust God for all her needs that Maddie had to come to understand, and how Art had to learn to let go of his grief.
A short read that is easily devoured in a matter of hours, A JANUARY BRIDE has a message that will ultimately stay with the reader for a long time. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $3.63. 99 pages.
January 14, 2014
This is another in the "A Year of Weddings" series published by Zondervan - Fiction. Each of these novellas focus on a wedding and the trials and tribulations leading up to the event. These are nicely clean, but have some UST for our reading enjoyment. Kisses can be FUN! They are also inspirational, but they don't beat you over the head about it. Again, nicely done.
This is the third book in the "Year of Weddings" series that I've read. And I loved this one the most. Maybe because I'm an editor, and reading about Maddie's life as she writes books, there was something that rang true here.
Maddie can't work in her sister's house as it undergoes a major renovation. Her elderly, but spry, neighbor Ginny finds a place for her to work in a friend's B&B. It's empty during the week and the lovely surrounds and the quiet are the perfect place for Maddie to get her novel going.
She and the landlord, Arthur, leave each other notes. She assumes that he's this older gentleman, because he's Ginny's friend. He assumes she's elderly because she's Ginny's friend.
Neither are correct.
Times passes as do their letters to each other. They are rapidly becoming friends through their words. I found myself getting anxious about their actual meeting. Ginny has a hand in that, too.
Arthur's beloved wife died nearly three years ago. He struggles to accept his growing attraction to Maddie and, once again, Ginny helps out. I think she needs her own book! Maybe Alex, the cat, needs one, too.
Yes, I enjoyed this Wedding Series book the best so far. Well done, Ms. Raney. I will be looking up more from you!
*Thank you, NetGalley and Zondervan, for the opportunity to read A January Bride.
If my review intrigues you, you could add A January Bride to your Goodreads' Shelf.
This is the third book in the "Year of Weddings" series that I've read. And I loved this one the most. Maybe because I'm an editor, and reading about Maddie's life as she writes books, there was something that rang true here.
Maddie can't work in her sister's house as it undergoes a major renovation. Her elderly, but spry, neighbor Ginny finds a place for her to work in a friend's B&B. It's empty during the week and the lovely surrounds and the quiet are the perfect place for Maddie to get her novel going.
She and the landlord, Arthur, leave each other notes. She assumes that he's this older gentleman, because he's Ginny's friend. He assumes she's elderly because she's Ginny's friend.
Neither are correct.
Times passes as do their letters to each other. They are rapidly becoming friends through their words. I found myself getting anxious about their actual meeting. Ginny has a hand in that, too.
Arthur's beloved wife died nearly three years ago. He struggles to accept his growing attraction to Maddie and, once again, Ginny helps out. I think she needs her own book! Maybe Alex, the cat, needs one, too.
Yes, I enjoyed this Wedding Series book the best so far. Well done, Ms. Raney. I will be looking up more from you!
*Thank you, NetGalley and Zondervan, for the opportunity to read A January Bride.
If my review intrigues you, you could add A January Bride to your Goodreads' Shelf.
February 8, 2014
Originally Reviewed on Bewitching Bibliophile
Unlike December Bride, January Bride is done with a stronger flavor of faith in it. It's a cute story about a writer and an inn keeper widower who mistakenly believed something about the other, they start to communicate through letters and slowly begin to feel great regard for the other even though they have never met.
I laughed when I figured out what was happening; they certainly had their own time frame and they truly had made some funny assumptions about each other. I loved that the characters were both book lovers (one being an author, the other a professor in English). It was funny to read about an author struggling to get the story written and how she kept finding little pieces of Arthur and using them in the book she was writing.
They several near meetings and each one made you want to see if they would figure out who the other was. I loved their friend who kept them in the dark and aided in the meeting of minds before they could even begin to find reasons why it couldn't work. I totally get Arthur's hesitation and clearly he needed to feel like he was doing the right thing and not just being a lonely man grasping the first thing to make him feel. Maddie was an amazing and straight forward woman, who knew what she wanted but didn't want to be jerked around and she put her boundaries out there and I love her even more for it.
Make sure to RSVP to the other Weddings taking place this year. Click the link to get your invitation.
I enjoyed reading the story, even with it's strong Christian flavor, it might be a little strong for those who aren't Christian but will be the right amount for those looking for a good clean love story with faith involved.
Unlike December Bride, January Bride is done with a stronger flavor of faith in it. It's a cute story about a writer and an inn keeper widower who mistakenly believed something about the other, they start to communicate through letters and slowly begin to feel great regard for the other even though they have never met.
I laughed when I figured out what was happening; they certainly had their own time frame and they truly had made some funny assumptions about each other. I loved that the characters were both book lovers (one being an author, the other a professor in English). It was funny to read about an author struggling to get the story written and how she kept finding little pieces of Arthur and using them in the book she was writing.
They several near meetings and each one made you want to see if they would figure out who the other was. I loved their friend who kept them in the dark and aided in the meeting of minds before they could even begin to find reasons why it couldn't work. I totally get Arthur's hesitation and clearly he needed to feel like he was doing the right thing and not just being a lonely man grasping the first thing to make him feel. Maddie was an amazing and straight forward woman, who knew what she wanted but didn't want to be jerked around and she put her boundaries out there and I love her even more for it.
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I enjoyed reading the story, even with it's strong Christian flavor, it might be a little strong for those who aren't Christian but will be the right amount for those looking for a good clean love story with faith involved.
March 21, 2014
When Madeleine Houser, a successful novelist, relocates from New York City to Kansas, she finds that writing anywhere may not be as easy as she believed. With a looming deadline, Maddie desperately needs to find a way to concentrate. Taking the advice of her friend and neighbor, Ginny Ross, Maddie sets up a temporary office in a quaint, but currently unused bed and breakfast, owned by Ginny’s friend, Arthur Tyler. Finally finding the much-needed peace and quiet to write, Maddie steadily progresses toward her deadline as she continues to utilize the B&B – and strikes up a surprising ‘pen pal’ friendship with Art. As the friendship grows through their daily messages, neither Maddie nor Art know what to expect. Is love possible without meeting face-to-face? Will misconceptions and lurking pasts stand in its way?
The second novella in Zondervan’s A Year of Weddings – a collection of wedding-based novellas by best-selling inspirational romance novelists – “A January Bride,” by Deborah Raney, is an enjoyable and light read. By no means is the plot a surprise (with the giveaways in both the title and the collection’s premise), but the story does have its quirks. The character interaction and misconceptions are delightful and I thoroughly enjoyed my chance to read this novella. Though it’s part of a collection, it can definitely be read without the other novellas, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone with an interest in inspirational romance and a free afternoon. Again, I greatly appreciate BookSneeze for providing me with this free copy and the opportunity to review it honestly.
http://pagebypagebookbybook.blogspot....
The second novella in Zondervan’s A Year of Weddings – a collection of wedding-based novellas by best-selling inspirational romance novelists – “A January Bride,” by Deborah Raney, is an enjoyable and light read. By no means is the plot a surprise (with the giveaways in both the title and the collection’s premise), but the story does have its quirks. The character interaction and misconceptions are delightful and I thoroughly enjoyed my chance to read this novella. Though it’s part of a collection, it can definitely be read without the other novellas, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone with an interest in inspirational romance and a free afternoon. Again, I greatly appreciate BookSneeze for providing me with this free copy and the opportunity to review it honestly.
http://pagebypagebookbybook.blogspot....
February 21, 2014
January Bride
Deborah Raney
Book Summary: Part of A Year of Wedding Novella series In A January Bride by Deborah Raney, what will happen when novelist Madeleine Houser’s “pen pal” friendship with a lonely widower takes an unexpected turn? Who can work in a house that's overrun by contractors and carpenters? Not Madeleine Houser, a successful novelist who gladly accepts the help of her octogenarian friend, Ginny, to arrange for a temporary office in the charming bed and breakfast owned by Ginny's friend, Arthur. Maddie's never met the innkeeper - but a friendship grows between them as Maddie and Arthur leave messages for each other each day. To Maddie's alternate delight and chagrin, she seems to be falling for the inn's owner - a man who's likely many years her senior - and who she's never even met.
Review: This is a unique book in that it is debuted as ebooks and will later be published as a book. I like this series. The stories are short and sweet. The main characters are Maddie and Art. The majority of the story is spent with Maddie. You get glimpses of Art - so that makes the story even more intriguing. I liked Ginny a secondary character but the facilitator of events. She knows things about both Maddie and Art that the other does not. It is sweet and for anyone who has spent time apart prior to marriage from their fiancé knows that sweet can be a great start. I hope the rest are as enjoyable as this one.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Zondervan Fiction for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
Deborah Raney
Book Summary: Part of A Year of Wedding Novella series In A January Bride by Deborah Raney, what will happen when novelist Madeleine Houser’s “pen pal” friendship with a lonely widower takes an unexpected turn? Who can work in a house that's overrun by contractors and carpenters? Not Madeleine Houser, a successful novelist who gladly accepts the help of her octogenarian friend, Ginny, to arrange for a temporary office in the charming bed and breakfast owned by Ginny's friend, Arthur. Maddie's never met the innkeeper - but a friendship grows between them as Maddie and Arthur leave messages for each other each day. To Maddie's alternate delight and chagrin, she seems to be falling for the inn's owner - a man who's likely many years her senior - and who she's never even met.
Review: This is a unique book in that it is debuted as ebooks and will later be published as a book. I like this series. The stories are short and sweet. The main characters are Maddie and Art. The majority of the story is spent with Maddie. You get glimpses of Art - so that makes the story even more intriguing. I liked Ginny a secondary character but the facilitator of events. She knows things about both Maddie and Art that the other does not. It is sweet and for anyone who has spent time apart prior to marriage from their fiancé knows that sweet can be a great start. I hope the rest are as enjoyable as this one.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Zondervan Fiction for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
February 19, 2014
When Madeleine Houser needs a quiet place to write that's not in the midst of a construction zone, her neighbor sends her to the bed & breakfast on the other side of town. The B&B is run by a widowed professor, Arthur. Madeleine soon finds herself being very productive in the quiet have of the B&B and leaves the owner a note. He replies, and soon both look forward to the notes. Both have started to fall for the person writing the notes, but what will happen when the pair finally meets in person?
This is part of the Year of Weddings novella collection. I read this in about 2 hours. I found it to be a sweet story. I personally loved the mistaken identities each of the two main characters had of the other. And I loved the letter/note writing. It reminded me of an old Judy Garland movie In the Good Ol' Summertime.
While it was sweet and a good story, overall I found this to really be just ok. I didn't love it, but I didn't dislike it either. Truthfully I felt kinda blah about this book.
I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson/Zondervan/HarperCollins Booklook Blogging program for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Love Inspired, weddings, novellas, contemporary romance
Rating - 3.5 stars
This is part of the Year of Weddings novella collection. I read this in about 2 hours. I found it to be a sweet story. I personally loved the mistaken identities each of the two main characters had of the other. And I loved the letter/note writing. It reminded me of an old Judy Garland movie In the Good Ol' Summertime.
While it was sweet and a good story, overall I found this to really be just ok. I didn't love it, but I didn't dislike it either. Truthfully I felt kinda blah about this book.
I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson/Zondervan/HarperCollins Booklook Blogging program for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of Love Inspired, weddings, novellas, contemporary romance
Rating - 3.5 stars
July 29, 2014
This book was too predictable and too slow-moving for me to ever really fall in love with the characters or the story. I almost felt relieved when it was over -- there were several times I wanted to insert myself into the story to help these characters along!
Madeleine Houser is an author who is living in her sister's house while it is being renovated so she can be close to her mom, who is sick with Alzheimer's. She can't write with all the renovating going on so her old, spry matchmaking neighbor Ginny arranges for her to spend her days writing at Arthur's bed and breakfast. Maddie knows that Arthur is Ginny's friend, is a widower, and is about to retire. So she assumes that he is old.
Arthur Tyler is a 39-year-old widower and an English professor. He knows that Ginny's friend is writing at his bed-and-breakfast while he is gone during the day; he assumes that Ginny's friend is as old as she is.
And so they start leaving notes for each other, assuming they are writing to someone a lot older than they are.
Content: Clean, no swearing.
Madeleine Houser is an author who is living in her sister's house while it is being renovated so she can be close to her mom, who is sick with Alzheimer's. She can't write with all the renovating going on so her old, spry matchmaking neighbor Ginny arranges for her to spend her days writing at Arthur's bed and breakfast. Maddie knows that Arthur is Ginny's friend, is a widower, and is about to retire. So she assumes that he is old.
Arthur Tyler is a 39-year-old widower and an English professor. He knows that Ginny's friend is writing at his bed-and-breakfast while he is gone during the day; he assumes that Ginny's friend is as old as she is.
And so they start leaving notes for each other, assuming they are writing to someone a lot older than they are.
Content: Clean, no swearing.
January 18, 2023
Deze novelle sprak me vanaf de eerste bladzijde erg aan. Het plot is erg origineel! Het verhaal zit goed in elkaar en de details zijn goed uitgewerkt waardoor je helemaal begrijpt dat Maddie en Art een verkeerd beeld van elkaar krijgen: ze hebben elkaar nog nooit ontmoet, maar door bepaalde details die ze over elkaar ontdekken, denken ze beiden dat de ander al heel oud is.
Alle misverstanden stapelen zich op totdat ze elkaar eindelijk ontmoeten. Dat gedeelte heb ik met een glimlach gelezen :) Daarnaast zit door het verhaal een mooie boodschap verweven: Dat er nog zo veel goede dingen zijn die God geeft, alle schoonheid, ook in verdrietige en donkere omstandigheden. Dat God de kracht en moed geeft om verder te gaan - Híj is de zekerheid van ons bestaan.
Alle misverstanden stapelen zich op totdat ze elkaar eindelijk ontmoeten. Dat gedeelte heb ik met een glimlach gelezen :) Daarnaast zit door het verhaal een mooie boodschap verweven: Dat er nog zo veel goede dingen zijn die God geeft, alle schoonheid, ook in verdrietige en donkere omstandigheden. Dat God de kracht en moed geeft om verder te gaan - Híj is de zekerheid van ons bestaan.
June 18, 2015
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influenced my review of this novella.
This novella series has one thing in common: all of the books are incredibly interesting. This romance story started slow, but quickly progressed and I was excited to find out what would happen by the end of the novella. The romance story was cute, sweet, and clean. I would recommend these novellas to anyone looking for a good romance story. Each of these novellas can be read as stand-alones or as a series.
Originally read on October 18, 2014. Started reading for a second time on May 7, 2015.
This novella series has one thing in common: all of the books are incredibly interesting. This romance story started slow, but quickly progressed and I was excited to find out what would happen by the end of the novella. The romance story was cute, sweet, and clean. I would recommend these novellas to anyone looking for a good romance story. Each of these novellas can be read as stand-alones or as a series.
Originally read on October 18, 2014. Started reading for a second time on May 7, 2015.
January 10, 2014
*I received a free ARC of A January Bride from Zondervan Fiction via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review*
A January Bride is a very sweet story, where a lot of the romantic action happens in an epistolary fashion.
This and all my other reviews are originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews
A January Bride is a very sweet story, where a lot of the romantic action happens in an epistolary fashion.
This and all my other reviews are originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews
May 20, 2019
Had never read this author, and probably should've started with a full book. I never had any mental picture of what the two main characters looked like, and didn't really understand them. Overall, felt it was a cheesy story. How did they fall in love instantly after their first date? I did enjoy the notes they left for each other, but that's about it.
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